Social Media Guidelines

The University at Albany is using social media to make meaningful connections around the globe. Social media platforms, including Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube and Pinterest make the excellent academic programs, achievements and initiatives taking place at the University even more accessible.

It is important for the University community to be aware of social media because these social technologies can help create and nurture relationships, share information, advance knowledge, raise awareness, build support, participate in important conversations and collaborate on new ideas.

It's a conversation.
“Talk” on social media like you would talk to real people in professional situations. Avoid overly "composed" language. Consider content that's open-ended and invites interaction. Encourage comments.

It’s your Responsibility.
What you write is your responsibility. Participation in University social media channels is not a right but a privilege and opportunity. Therefore, be respectful. Refrain from using profane, libelous and slanderous language, and do not post inappropriate comments.

Say something of value.
Posts should be thought provoking and build a sense of community. If it helps raise awareness of the University and its entities, solves problems or improves skills, then it's adding value.

Be respectful.
Some negative comments do not require a response, while others should be taken seriously and addressed. While discussing a negative experience or disagreeing with a concept or person, you are more likely to achieve your goals if you are constructive and polite.

Social media sites are public.
There's no such thing as a "private" social media site. Search engines can turn up posts years after the publication date. Comments can be forwarded or copied. Archival systems save information even if you delete a post. You are legally liable for what you post on your site and on the sites of others. Be sure that what you post today will not negatively affect you in the future.

Be accurate.
Make sure you have accurate facts before posting. It's always better to first verify information with a source than to have to post a correction or retraction later. Cite and link to your sources whenever possible. If you make an error, correct it quickly and visibly. Mistakes happen, you’re human. Be upfront and quick with your correction.

Link back.
You are encouraged to provide links back to www.albany.edu.

Protect confidentiality.
Do not post confidential or proprietary information about the University, faculty, staff or student. Never comment on anything related to legal matters, litigation, or any parties in litigation with the University.

No product endorsements.
Do not use the University at Albany’s name to promote products, causes, or political party/candidates.

Be aware of the rules of the road for each social media platform.
Each social media platform has its own guidelines, rules and regulations. For example, Facebook has very specific rules for contests and giveaways. Please be aware of the rules and guidelines in the platform you are using.